Bnei Brak Haredi Rabbi Advocates Calm and Respect Amid Political Turmoil

Rabbi Nissim Ben Shimon, a prominent halachic authority in Bnei Brak, called for moderation and respect in public discourse amid ongoing political debates over the arrest of Haredi draft evaders. In an interview with Kol Chai radio, he emphasized that harsh language and hatred toward those with differing views, including secular Israelis and the security forces, are inappropriate. "If you want to influence, you do not do it with anger and shouting," he said, advocating for gentle and respectful communication to foster understanding.

Rabbi Ben Shimon illustrated his approach with a story from his time on the rabbinical court, describing how a man distant from religious life gradually embraced tradition through patient and non-judgmental guidance rather than fear or blame. He stressed that true solutions to the current crisis lie not only in political struggle or public messaging but primarily in strengthening the internal fabric of the Haredi community.

He urged the community to maintain the sanctity of synagogues by avoiding idle talk during prayers, stating that reducing such distractions and increasing reverence would lead to genuine spiritual growth. Addressing yeshiva students and scholars worried about the law's consequences, Rabbi Ben Shimon reassured them not to fear, noting that fear only breeds more fear, and that those engaged in Torah study receive divine assistance. He concluded by encouraging continued learning and personal strengthening as the community’s role in facing the challenges ahead.